Cargraphic uses racing know-how to improve Aston Martin’s Vantage

German tuning firm Cargraphic has launched a new performance upgrade for the V8 Vantage that sees improvements in power, handling, and design. The company’s engineers have modified the 4.5 litre V8 engine to raise peak power from 426hp (313kW) to 466hp (342kW), as well as increasing peak torque by an additional 24lb-ft (32Nm). This reduces the car’s 0-100 km/h to a sub-5 second reading. A new throttle map, combined with the increase in torque, also make the engine more responsive throughout the rev range.

A new driver-adjustable suspension system, which lowers the car up to 20mm, is also available. It allows drivers to switch between normal and sports mode at the push of a button in the cockpit. The normal mode has been designed to enhance the V8 Vantage’s existing ride and handling characteristics, while the firmer sports mode delivers an even more focused driving experience on the road or for track use.

The engine performance pack has a modified exhaust system with a low back pressure sports catalyst and a driver-controlled switch to manually override the V8 Vantage’s exhaust valve. This gives the option of a quiet mode, where the valve is permanently closed, auto, where the valve operates as it does on the standard car, and sport mode, where the valve is permanently open. This is the same valve that makes the baby Aston one of the best sounding V8 cars in the world, so sports mode should be something special.

The V8 Vantage’s aerodynamics have also been analysed in a windtunnel to develop an aero package to reduce high speed lift. The new package includes a carbon-fiber front spoiler lip, rear spoiler and diffuser, side skirts and a mirror housing set which all fit as if made by Aston Martin’s own factory in Gaydon.

The final touch comes by the choice of wheels, from light weight three-piece wheels measuring between 19 and 20in in diameter, to a sport classic design and a racing style GTR design.